Mapping the World
A ARTE Original
Mapping the World takes the sprawling, often tangled world of geopolitics and breaks it into short, easily digestible pieces. Each ten minute segment peels back layers of a global issue, showing how borders, resources, history, and power intersect to shape outcomes on every map. The show favors a... Read more
Where to Watch "Mapping the World"
Not Currently Streaming
This title isn't available for streaming in the US right now.
Not Currently Available On (8 platforms)
Streaming availability last verified: January 27, 2026
About Mapping the World
Mapping the World takes the sprawling, often tangled world of geopolitics and breaks it into short, easily digestible pieces. Each ten minute segment peels back layers of a global issue, showing how borders, resources, history, and power intersect to shape outcomes on every map. The show favors a practical, question driven approach over abstract theory, guiding viewers to ask why a decision matters and who stands to gain or lose. Visuals matter here, with clear graphics and evolving maps that trace connections from neighborhood to continent. The tone stays calm and curious, inviting conversation without surrendering complexity or nuance. Across its run the program tackles topics from contested borders and energy routes to migration pressures and global trade networks.
Released in 1990 and created by Jean-Christophe Victor, the program uses a map driven, explanatory format to demystify geopolitics. It relies on concise narration and original visuals to turn big ideas into bite sized lessons. Its format relies on on screen maps, overlay diagrams, and concise expert commentary to guide viewers through complex ideas quickly.
The series' signature map visuals and compact episodes left a mark by making global affairs feel accessible to a broad audience. Its approach influenced later educational shows and explainers that aim to teach complex topics with clarity and pace. The visuals use color coding and dynamic timelines to reveal cause and effect, avoiding sensationalism.
Critics welcomed the clear, patient delivery and the focus on geography as a key driver of politics. Themes center on how place and resource shape choices, reminding viewers that maps are not just backdrops but forces that guide decisions. Audiences reported feeling empowered to connect local events with global trends and engage in informed discussion.
Awards: While it was praised in educational circles for its inventive presentation, there are no well documented major nominations or wins in the major awards databases. The program is remembered more for its teaching approach than for accolades, and it remains a notable example of map based geopolitics on television.
Details
- Release Date
- December 12, 1990
- Episode Length
- 12m
- User Ratings
- 8 votes
- Type
- TV Series
- Seasons
- 37
- Episodes
- 1185
- Network
- ARTE, ARTE, La Sept
- Status
- Returning Series
- Genres
- Documentary
- Country
- France
- Studio
- ARTE
- External Links
- View on IMDB
Seasons (37 seasons, 1185 episodes)
1990
2 episodes - 1990
1991
30 episodes - 1991
1992
28 episodes - 1992
1993
43 episodes - 1993
1994
42 episodes - 1994
1995
41 episodes - 1995
1996
40 episodes - 1996
1997
36 episodes - 1997
1998
35 episodes - 1998
1999
36 episodes - 1999
2000
36 episodes - 2000
2001
30 episodes - 2001
2002
37 episodes - 2002
2003
37 episodes - 2003
2004
35 episodes - 2004
2005
35 episodes - 2005
2006
37 episodes - 2006
2007
37 episodes - 2007
2008
38 episodes - 2008
2009
36 episodes - 2009
2010
36 episodes - 2010
2011
35 episodes - 2011
2012
37 episodes - 2012
2013
37 episodes - 2013
2014
34 episodes - 2014
2015
30 episodes - 2015
2016
29 episodes - 2016
2017
19 episodes - 2017
2018
30 episodes - 2018
2019
29 episodes - 2019
2020
30 episodes - 2020
2021
30 episodes - 2021
2022
30 episodes - 2022
2023
28 episodes - 2023
2024
28 episodes - 2024
2025
29 episodes - 2025
2026
5 episodes - 2026
